Images & Sexual Offences
Prep Time:
Internet Culture and Social Media
Cook Time:
Serves:
Images and Sexual Offences
Level:
8
About the Recipe
If someone is pressuring you for images, or has shared one without your say, it is a crime by them, not you. You can get help, and asking early is always the right move.
Ingredients
In danger now? Call 999. Want to talk? Tell a parent, carer, teacher or someone you trust. You can report anonymously through Fearless (part of Crimestoppers).
Preparation
Know this in 60 seconds
→ If someone pressures you to send a sexual image, or threatens to share one, the crime is theirs, not yours.
→ The law covers sexual images of anyone under 18.
→ Official prosecution guidance says it is highly unlikely to be in the public interest to prosecute a child for making an image of themselves. That is not the same as saying it is legal.
→ Sharing an image without consent, or one made through grooming, exploitation or bullying, is highly likely to be prosecuted. Adults who ask for, keep or share these images will usually be prosecuted.
→ Don't pay, don't send more, keep the messages and tell someone you trust.
Why this matters
Some people use social media to pressure young people into sending sexual images, then threaten to share them or demand money. It is never your fault.
What the law says
The law covers sexual images of anyone under 18. The official prosecution guidance (CPS) says it is highly unlikely to be in the public interest to prosecute a child for making an image of themselves, and that consensual sharing between children is unlikely to need prosecution. That is not the same as saying it is legal. Prosecution is highly likely where an image is shared without consent, made for an adult, or made through grooming, exploitation or bullying, and adults who ask for, keep or share these images will usually be prosecuted.
If someone is pressuring you for images or money
→ Stop talking to them. Don't send anything. Don't pay.
→ Keep the messages and tell a trusted adult.
→ You can report online sexual abuse, or someone contacting you in a way that worries you, to CEOP, or talk to Childline.
→ You are the victim here. Asking for help early is always the right move.
Keep going
Read more on our Internet Culture and Social Media page. Put the shoe on the other foot with Sock It!, or share your view with Kulture Voice.